IEC 61982-4:2015

Overview

IEC 61982-4:2015 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies safety requirements, test procedures, and acceptance criteria for nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) secondary cells and modules used in the propulsion of electric road vehicles. These vehicles include both battery electric vehicles (BEV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). The primary aim of this standard is to ensure the basic safety performance of Ni-MH cells and modules under normal and reasonably foreseeable misuse scenarios during the operation of electric vehicles.

The requirements are based on the proper use of cells and modules within manufacturer-specified voltage, current, and temperature limits. IEC 61982-4:2015 focuses on safety during in-vehicle use and does not address transportation or storage scenarios.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application

  • Applies to Ni-MH secondary cells and modules for electric road vehicle propulsion
  • Excludes lithium batteries and does not cover transport/storage risks
  • Relevant for BEVs and HEVs using Ni-MH technology

• Test Procedures

  • Outlines safety test methodologies including mechanical, thermal, and electrical testing
  • Specifies general conditions for conducting accurate and repeatable tests
  • Ensures test procedures evaluate fire, explosion, and deformation risks

• Acceptance Criteria

  • Defines critical safety outcomes such as freedom from fire and explosion under test conditions
  • Acceptance is achieved by meeting all requirements following each test scenario

• Measurement Guidelines

  • Details necessary accuracy for instruments measuring voltage, current, temperature, time, and dimensions
  • Specifies procedures for state of charge (SOC) adjustment and capacity confirmation

Applications

IEC 61982-4:2015 is essential for organizations involved in the design, testing, and manufacture of Ni-MH batteries for electric vehicles. Its practical applications include:

• Battery Manufacturers
  Compliance ensures that cells and modules meet internationally recognized safety benchmarks, facilitating acceptance in automotive markets.

• Electric Vehicle OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) Helps integrate safe, reliable Ni-MH battery systems in BEVs and HEVs to protect end-users and meet regulatory requirements.

• Testing Laboratories Provides a reliable, standardized framework for conducting safety validation and certifying Ni-MH cells and modules for automotive applications.

• Automotive Supply Chain Enhances overall vehicle safety by ensuring battery systems perform safely during mechanical impact, temperature fluctuations, and electrical faults.

Adhering to this standard mitigates risks associated with battery failure, such as fire or explosion, and supports the deployment of clean, efficient electric transportation.

Related Standards

Organizations working with Ni-MH propulsion batteries should also consider the following standards:

• IEC 61982 Series - Covers broader performance and endurance tests for secondary batteries (except lithium) for electric road vehicles.
• IEC 60050-482 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary for primary and secondary cells and batteries, offering standard terminology.
• IEC 61434 - Guide to designation of current in alkaline secondary cell and battery standards.
• IEC 62660-2 - Addresses reliability and abuse testing for secondary lithium-ion cells for electric vehicles.

Integrating IEC 61982-4:2015 with related standards promotes comprehensive safety and reliability in electric vehicle battery systems, supporting wider adoption of environmentally friendly transportation technologies.